John Pizzarelli is a celebrated American jazz guitarist and vocalist, renowned for his captivating performances and innovative interpretations of jazz standards. With a rich legacy rooted in his family's musical background, he has released over 20 albums and collaborated with iconic artists, blending jazz with pop and folk influences to enchant audiences worldwide.
John Pizzarelli is a highly respected American jazz guitarist, vocalist, and composer. Known for his sophisticated interpretations of jazz standards, inventive arrangements, and charismatic stage presence, John Pizzarelli has carved a niche for himself in the genres of jazz and swing.
John Paul Pizzarelli Jr., born on April 6, 1960, in Paterson, New Jersey, is the son of renowned swing jazz guitarist Bucky Pizzarelli. He began playing the guitar at the tender age of six and continued his musical education with the trumpet through college. Pizzarelli attended Don Bosco Preparatory High School, the University of Tampa, and William Paterson University. Despite formal education, he credits his father as his most important teacher. As a teenager, Pizzarelli had the rare opportunity to perform with jazz legends like Benny Goodman, Les Paul, Zoot Sims, Slam Stewart, and Clark Terry.
John Pizzarelli released his debut album, I'm Hip (Please Don't Tell My Father), in 1983. Over his career, he has released over 20 solo albums. Notable albums include:
Pizzarelli has collaborated with artists like Paul McCartney, James Taylor, and Rosemary Clooney, and frequently with his family members—father Bucky Pizzarelli, brother Martin Pizzarelli, and his wife, singer Jessica Molaskey. His celebrated trio with pianist Ray Kennedy and brother Martin Pizzarelli released the acclaimed Live at Birdland in 2003. Pizzarelli has also appeared as a session musician or vocalist on hundreds of albums.
John Pizzarelli is known for blending jazz standards with pop and folk influences, reinterpreting the Great American Songbook alongside songs by artists such as James Taylor and Paul McCartney. His guitar work is characterized by a smooth, swinging style, often played on a seven-string guitar—a skill influenced by his father. Critically acclaimed for his “inimitable warmth, humor and munificence of spirit,” Pizzarelli is praised as “madly creative” and “hip with a wink.”
John Pizzarelli is regarded as a leading interpreter of jazz standards and a bridge between traditional and contemporary jazz. His inventive arrangements and engaging performances have helped introduce jazz to new audiences. Pizzarelli frequently collaborates with his father Bucky and brother Martin, continuing his family's significant jazz legacy.
Pizzarelli has recorded for labels including P-Vine, Chesky, Novus, RCA, Telarc, Arbors, and Concord. He continues to tour internationally and maintains a prominent presence in the jazz world.
John Pizzarelli is married to singer Jessica Molaskey, with whom he frequently collaborates. The Pizzarelli family is one of the most influential in American jazz, with multiple generations contributing to the genre.
